A 14-month-old baby often whimpers and fusses during sleep at night.

Mar 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
A 14-month-old baby who frequently whimpers or moans during sleep at night may be experiencing issues due to unsuitable sleeping environment, indigestion, calcium deficiency, upper respiratory tract infection, infantile colic, or other factors. It is recommended to identify and treat the underlying cause. Please visit a hospital for a systematic evaluation to establish an accurate diagnosis, and actively pursue treatment under medical guidance. Avoid self-medicating, which could lead to adverse drug reactions.

A 14-month-old baby who frequently whimpers or fusses during sleep at night may be experiencing issues due to unsuitable sleeping environment, indigestion, calcium deficiency, upper respiratory tract infection, or infantile colic. It is recommended to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

1. Unsuitable Sleeping Environment

If the indoor temperature is too high or too low during sleep, it may lead to excessively dry skin, causing discomfort such as itching and flaking, which can negatively affect sleep quality at night. It is advised to maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity level in the sleeping environment to help relieve these symptoms.

2. Indigestion

Babies have relatively weak gastrointestinal function. Eating too much before bedtime may increase the burden on the digestive system, leading to indigestion and symptoms such as abdominal bloating and pain, which can disrupt sleep. It is recommended to take medications such as Lactasin tablets, Jianwei Xiaoshi tablets, or Infant Spleen-Strengthening Powder under medical guidance to promote digestion and improve symptoms.

3. Calcium Deficiency

Calcium deficiency in the body may increase neuromuscular excitability, causing muscle twitching or spasms, particularly disrupting sleep at night. It is advisable to consume more calcium-rich foods in daily diet, such as milk and eggs. When necessary, follow a doctor’s instructions to take supplements like Calcium Carbonate D3 Granules, Calcium Lactate Oral Solution, or Calcium Gluconate Oral Solution to alleviate symptoms.

4. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Babies have relatively weak immunity. When viruses invade the upper respiratory tract, causing infection, symptoms such as nasal congestion and sore throat may occur. Nasal blockage during sleep at night can lead to breathing difficulties and breathlessness. It is recommended to take medications such as Ribavirin Granules, Cefixime Granules, or Pediatric Paracetamol-Pseudoephedrine Granules under medical supervision to control viral infection and improve symptoms.

5. Infantile Colic

Infants’ gastrointestinal systems are not fully matured. Excessive carbohydrate intake, lactose intolerance, or food allergies may trigger infantile colic, resulting in abdominal bloating and pain. Such abdominal discomfort can impair sleep quality, making the baby restless during sleep. Under medical guidance, abdominal massage or warm compresses may be applied to promote gastrointestinal motility and reduce symptoms.

It is recommended to seek medical evaluation at a hospital for systematic examination and accurate diagnosis, and to actively pursue treatment under professional guidance, avoiding self-medication that could lead to adverse drug reactions.